HEPA Filter Vacuums Take The Danger Out Of Housecleaning
One study revealed that vacuum cleaners could easily aerosolize cat allergen on floors and carpets to critical levels. Vacuuming produced a level of allergen contamination equaling 40 nanograms per cubic meter of air. This is more than enough to provoke an asthmatic response of a 20% Fall in Expiratory Volume (FEV).
Asthma sufferers exposed to allergens during everyday housecleaning could need a trip to the emergency room. No one enjoys an attack of asthma or even the lesser inconvenience of allergies. Perhaps you are considering a HEPA vacuum as a safer, more comfortable way of performing necessary cleaning. If that is the case then we need to answer one important question:
Do HEPA filter vacuums perform better than their non-HEPA counterparts?
HEPA vacuums have come a long way since their first introduction. But a study published as far back as April 1998 did find a difference between HEPA and non-HEPA vacuums. Entitled “Effects of various vacuum cleaners on the airborne content of major cat allergen (Fel d 1)” it found that two of the HEPA filter vacuums tested did not increase airborne cat allergen. However, a foam filter vacuum and a standard vacuum significantly increased allergen levels in the test apartment.
Again, in 2000, the study “The effect of high-efficiency and standard vacuum-cleaners on mite, cat and dog allergen levels and clinical progress” found another benefit to using HEPA filter vacuums. This study followed a number of patients over a twelve-month period. Not only did living room and bedroom carpets show significant reductions in major allergens but also the overall health of the patients improved. There was both a reduction in histamine levels and bronchodilator use.
It is recommended that any household allergic or asthmatic individuals consider a high quality HEPA vacuum. Effectiveness in controlling allergens can vary depending on the HEPA vacuums design and construction. Leakage around the filter can reduce its ability to trap particles just as it does in HEPA filter air purifiers. The best HEPA vacuums keep airborne allergen to a bare minimum.
Among the top vacuum cleaners you may wish to consider are:
- Miele Canister Cleaners - One of the best choices for a canister vacuum cleaner today. They come with a very advanced HEPA filtration system to rid your home of harmful allergens.
- Dyson Vacuums - A popular vacuum cleaner line from one of the most recognized names in the industry. Their cleaners pack so much power that they simply do not clog under normal operation.
- Bissell Vacuum Cleaners - Bissell has a full lineup of diverse machines to handle many different cleaning chores in your home. Their HEPA technology ranks up there with the best brands in the industry meaning your home will be healthier to live in.
Article courtesy of J Alan Rodgers of Home-Air-Purifier-Guide.com
